This welcome news comes as Irish beef secured a USDA seal of approval after 3 years of engagement between Bord Bia and USDA.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed TD, commented; “This is an exciting time in the journey of Irish beef in the USA from initial access for primal cuts in 2015, to access for manufacturing beef in 2016 and the commencement of trade in manufacturing beef earlier this year.

As Lidl starts the process of opening stores in the USA, today’s launch of Irish Beef to the retail market marks another key step in this journey. I would also like to pay testament to the great work being done by Slaney meats and their own focus and commitment to quality, sustainability and producing premium grass fed Irish beef.”

Rory Fanning, Managing Director for Slaney Foods International added: “Our partnership with Lidl Ireland is very special in terms of the leverage to develop new markets for our product…Our relationship grew from humble beginnings, but Lidl were quick to spot the potential to further develop one of Ireland’s premium food products, grass fed Irish beef.

We’ve been very grateful for the support from Lidl, Bord Bia and the Department of Agriculture in helping open up the U.S. market to us and we look forward to the American consumer getting a taste of premium grass fed Irish beef.”

Bord Bia CEO Tara Mc Carthy commented: “ I am delighted that Lidl is illustrating its confidence in sustainably produced Quality Assured Irish beef in this most tangible way…The Slaney US announcement is an exciting new chapter in our relationship with the group and will be significantly bolstered by today`s USDA endorsement of Bord Bia`s marketing claims. The USDA shield on Irish beef will assist in attracting the U.S. consumer to a new beef taste, a product that is Irish and sustainably produced.”

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